“For example, in September I was privileged to attend the Battle of Britain Memorial Service in Westminster Abbey.

“Earlier this year we had the 70th anniversary of VE Day. Next year, of course, will see the centenary anniversary of the battle of Mametz Wood, and the Welsh Government has of course been a contributor to the funding of the memorial there.

“At the weekend I attended the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance in Cardiff, along with the Leader of the Opposition and the Leader of the Liberal Democrats, followed by the annual Rhondda Remembrance concert on Sunday evening.

“Tomorrow, the First Minister will open the Field of Remembrance in the grounds of Cardiff Castle, and will attend the Service of Remembrance in Cathays Park, Cardiff on Sunday.

“Events such as these remind us that without the sacrifices made by our Armed Services, we would not be living in the free society we enjoy today.”

Leighton Andrews then highlighted the support available to the Armed Forces community across all Ministerial portfolios as well as support provided by partner organisations such as Wales Probation Service and Royal British Legion.